Medical Drug Delivery Research Articles

Phase-gradient force-based optical array sorter

Microparticle sorting is crucial for applications in biomedicine, environmental monitoring, and biochip technology. However, traditional optical sorting methods often rely on external equipment, such as microfluidic devices. In this Letter, we proposed a phase-gradient force-based optical array sorting (POAS) scheme, which achieves the accurate transporting and sorting of the particles by regulating the phase-gradient force based on the physical characteristics of the particles. The method combines the function of particle transporting and sorting, eliminating the need for external auxiliary equipment. Based on the POAS scheme, we used the complex amplitude beam shaping algorithms to design a 1 × 2 array sorting beam with the controllable phase-gradient forces. The array sorting beam was used to experimentally sort two kinds of particles with different sizes, and the particles are first transported and then precisely sorted at the designated sorting nodes. All the parameters of the sorting beam were adjustable, which greatly enhances the flexibility and scalability of the optical sorting technology. This study provides an alternative scheme for the high-throughput particle sorting, which can be easily integrated into the optical sorting chips for applications in medical detection and drug delivery.

Optimization of Microbial Degradation of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Wastewater and Its Potential for Application in Public Health

In recent years, the application of biodegradable materials in the medical field has grown rapidly, covering bone scaffolds, vascular bridging, drug delivery carriers, implants, surgical instruments, and biochemical signal detection sensors. Compared with traditional materials, biodegradable materials are more environmentally friendly and have good biocompatibility, durability, and non-toxicity. However, the development of biodegradable materials in medicine still faces many challenges. The degradation time of the material is too long or too short, which will affect the therapeutic effect. At the same time, the degradation of the material is affected by external factors such as temperature, pH value, and pressure, and it is difficult to control. The complex degradation behavior in the body is difficult to predict, and the degradation of some materials may produce toxic substances or induce inflammatory reactions. Therefore, this article summarizes the types of medical biodegradable materials and systematically introduces the current application status of biodegradable materials in medical implants, tissue engineering, drug delivery, disease treatment, and biochemical electronic sensors. The application of biodegradable polymers in disposable medical treatment is also discussed. Specific medical application cases are studied to better explain the uses and benefits of these materials. Finally, the existing problems and future developments are discussed to provide a comprehensive reference for future research

Biodegradable materials in medical applications: Research progress

Recently, the application of biodegradable materials in the medical field has been growing rapidly, covering bone scaffolds, vascular bridging, drug delivery carriers, implants, surgical instruments, and biochemical signal detection sensors. Compared with traditional materials, biodegradable materials are more environmentally friendly and have good biocompatibility, durability, and non-toxicity. However, the development of biodegradable materials in medicine still faces many challenges. The degradation time of the material is too long or too short, which will affect the therapeutic effect. At the same time, the degradation of the material is affected by external influences such as temperature, pH value, and pressure, and it is not easy to manipulate. The complex degradation behavior in the body is also hard to predict, and the degradation of some materials may produce toxic substances or induce inflammatory reactions. Therefore, this article summarizes the types of medical biodegradable materials and systematically introduces the current application status of biodegradable materials in medical implants, tissue engineering, drug delivery, disease treatment, and biochemical electronic sensors. The application of biodegradable polymers in disposable medical treatment is also discussed. Specific medical application cases are studied to better explain the uses and benefits of these materials. Finally, the existing problems and future developments are discussed to provide a comprehensive reference for future research.

Biodegradable polymers: A sustainable approach to colon drug delivery

Biodegradable polymers have emerged as a promising solution for colon-specific drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and ability to degrade into non-toxic by-products. This review examines the advancements in biodegradable polymers, particularly their application in colon drug delivery systems. The natural process of biodegradation involves converting complex organic compounds into simpler molecules, which are then assimilated into elemental cycles such as carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur cycles. This property makes biodegradable polymers ideal for temporary medical applications, including sutures, tissue scaffolds, and drug delivery devices. Using biodegradable polymers in drug delivery eliminates the need for surgical removal of the device post-treatment, enhancing patient compliance and reducing medical costs. Despite the vast array of biodegradable polymers available, only a select few meet the stringent requirements for drug delivery applications, including biocompatibility, processability, sterilizability, and storage stability. These polymers degrade into biologically acceptable molecules that are metabolized and excreted through normal metabolic pathways, minimizing adverse reactions. Factors influencing the biodegradation of polymers include chemical structure, composition, molecular weight, morphology, and environmental conditions. Both natural and synthetic biodegradable polymers are being investigated for their potential in drug delivery, with ongoing research aimed at improving their long-term biocompatibility and mechanical properties. This review highlights the critical role of biodegradable polymers in advancing colon-specific drug delivery, addressing current challenges, and exploring future prospects.

Preparation and performance analysis of zinc-iron-based nanomaterials for targeted transport

Background Nanomaterials have applications in traditional Chinese medicine in the fields of medical equipment manufacturing, targeted transportation, and drug synergistic therapy. Objective The research aims to discuss the performance and performance of zinc-iron-based nanomaterials in medical drug delivery and synergistic drug therapy. Methods Using Prussian materials as precursors, magnetic zinc-iron nanomaterials were prepared by ZnCl2 and K3[Fe (CN)6]. Moreover, the morphology and composition of the material were analyzed. Results X-ray analysis was conducted on the prepared Zn3[Fe (CN)6]2·xH2O nanomaterials, and their purity met the design requirements. At the same time, drug loading analysis was conducted on Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·xH2O, and the release of capsaicin reached 86.3% under a certain phosphate buffer solution. Meanwhile, Zn3[Fe (CN)6]2·xH2O loaded tetracycline could release up to 90% in phosphate buffer solution. Antibacterial tests were conducted on self-made Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·xH2O samples and ZnFe2O4/ZnO. The Zn3[Fe(CN)6]2·xH2O samples showed a more significant inhibitory effect on cancer cells after loading with capsaicin. Conclusion The zinc-iron-based nanomaterials prepared by the research have excellent performance in drug loading and safety, indicating their significant potential for development in the medical field.

Evaluating the Antibacterial Properties of a Zeolite-Chitosan Biocomposite for Medical Applications

: Antibacterial substances have garnered significant interest in recent years due to their applications in medical equipment, prostheses, and drug delivery systems. Consequently, it is essential to identify and develop biomaterials with antibacterial properties tailored to specific target sites. This study utilizes two natural biomaterials: Chitosan and zeolite. Zeolite, a bioceramic with an aluminosilicate structure, exhibits high mechanical resistance, making it ideal for use in areas of the body that endure significant pressure, such as bones and teeth. Chitosan, on the other hand, possesses excellent properties for application in various bodily tissues. However, natural polymers like chitosan are often combined with other materials in composites to enhance their mechanical resistance. This research investigates the antibacterial properties of a biocomposite made from zeolite and chitosan against two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (gram-negative). The results revealed that the composite exhibited strong resistance against E. coli but comparatively lower resistance to S. aureus. Furthermore, the findings suggest that chitosan plays a more significant role in conferring these antibacterial properties.

Zwitterionic Polymers for Biomedical Applications: Antimicrobial and Antifouling Strategies toward Implantable Medical Devices and Drug Delivery.

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is extensively utilized in biomedical applications due to its biocompatibility; however, its thermal instability and susceptibility to oxidative degradation significantly constrain its long-term effectiveness. Zwitterionic polymers, characterized by their distinctive structure, enhanced stability, and superior biocompatibility, offer a more advantageous alternative. These polymers exhibit super hydrophilicity, resist nonspecific protein adsorption, and maintain stability in biological environments due to their charge-neutral ionic nature. Zwitterionic polymers enhance anticancer drug delivery by precisely targeting tumor cells and facilitating an efficient drug release. Their inherent antifouling properties and prolonged circulation within the bloodstream render them highly suitable for redox-sensitive drug carriers, thereby augmenting the antitumor efficacy. Moreover, zwitterionic polymers markedly mitigate biofouling in implants, biosensors, and wound dressings, thereby improving both their functionality and their therapeutic outcomes. These advantages arise from the formation of robust hydration layers, which significantly enhance the hemocompatibility and inhibit the adhesion of proteins, platelets, and bacteria. Zwitterionic polymers, including sulfobetaine (SB), phosphorylcholine (PC), and carboxybetaine (CB), are increasingly employed in blood-contacting devices and as effective coating materials for implantable devices. This mini-review paper aims to explore the recent diverse biomedical applications of zwitterionic polymers and highlight their advantageous properties compared with unmodified polymers. We will cover their use in drug delivery systems, tumor targeting nanocarriers, antibiofouling and antibacterial activities in implantable devices, tissue engineering, and diagnostic devices, demonstrating how their unique properties can translate into different applications. Through this exploration, this Perspective will display the potential of zwitterionic polymers as innovative polymer materials in the field of biomedical engineering and beyond.

Synthesis of oleic acid – coated zinc – doped iron boride nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Although various iron-based magnetic materials have been extensively studied in biomedical field for many years, iron boride compounds with interesting chemical and magnetic properties are relatively less explored, and their potential applications are not as widely known. In this study, the synthesis, coating, surface modification, and cytotoxicity tests of the Fe–Zn–B system were presented. Iron boride-based nanoparticles (NPs) containing elemental zinc (Zn) were developed by using a direct chemical synthesis of FeCl3, ZnCl2 and NaBH4, and investigated for potential use in biomedical applications. Powders having the phases of pure FeB with small amount of elemental Zn were obtained with a uniform morphology and an average particle size of 68 nm. The NPs were then coated with oleic acid (OA) and surface modified with sodium tricitrate, to increase their stability and biocompatibility, and well-dispersed NPs were obtained with sizes below 30 nm. TEM investigations revealed the presence of hybrid clusters with nanoparticle – OA structures, indicating that FeB nanoparticles were stabilized by being embedded in OA clusters, forming both agglomerated sub-micron and free nano-sized structures. Obtained NPs showed ferromagnetic property, with a saturation magnetization of 25.9 emu/g and a low coercivity of 90 Oe. As a result of testing different types of healthy and cancer cell lines with NPs, Zn-doped-FeB@OA NPs exhibited a high biocompatibility. Results suggested that highly biocompatible and magnetic OA-coated Zn-doped FeB particles can be potential candidates for biomedical applications such as medical imaging or drug delivery systems.

Designing a magnetic micro-robot for transporting stiff filamentous microcargo

In recent years, the medical industry has witnessed a growing interest in developing minimally invasive procedures, with magnetic micro-robots emerging as a promising approach. These micro-robots possess the ability to navigate through various media, including viscoelastic and non-Newtonian fluids, enabling targeted drug delivery and medical interventions. Many designs that have been proposed to date employ a contact-based method for transporting a payload. Undesired adhesion between the cargo and the carrier can make release at the target site problematic. The primary objective of our current work is to modify the design of magnetically actuated helical micro-robots to enable transportation of cargo in Newtonian fluids without requiring contact between the robot and the cargo. We conduct a comprehensive study on the shape and geometrical parameters of the helical micro-robot, specifically focusing on its capability to transport passive filaments that are rigid to thermal noise. Based on our analysis, we propose a novel design consisting of three helical sections with alternating handedness, including two pulling and one pushing microhelices. We first focus on naturally straight filaments but also show that the micro-robot can capture filaments with intrinsic curvature and those with a spherical payload attached at one end. Our findings offer valuable insights into the physics of helical micro-robots and their potential for medical procedures and drug delivery. Furthermore, the proposed non-contact method for delivering filamentous cargo could lead to the development of more effective micro-robots for medical applications.

Thermal analysis of AIN-Al2O3 Casson hybrid nano fluid flow through porous media with inclusion of slip impact

A mathematical analysis of magnetized Casson hybrid nanofluid flow over a stretching permeable sheet with porosity effects and being exposed to thermal convective boundary conditions with slip in velocity and concentration have been presented numerically. The attained steady-state partial differential equations are highly coupled and nonlinear in nature and are not agreeable to any of the direct techniques. Hence, they are being reduced to coupled-nonlinear ordinary differential equations by means of appropriate similarity transformations. A MATLAB-based, bvp4c scheme has been employed to obtain numerical solutions. Suitable graphs have been plotted which demonstrates the fluid flow velocity, temperature, concentration and micro-organism distribution fields in the boundary layer regime. Magnifying Casson fluid parameter and porosity leads to a decline in the velocity field. Amplifying the concentration slip decays the concentration profile. A comparative analysis was conducted to confirm the findings from previous research, demonstrating strong consistency with the results previously documented. Enhancing heat transfer in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), optimizing medical drug delivery techniques, and boosting the efficiency of cooling systems in industrial processes are all potential applications of this study.

Photoactivatable poly(2-oxazoline)s enable antifouling hydrogel membrane coatings

In recent years, hydrophilic poly(2-oxazoline)s have been examined as an alternative polymer to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) with added stability and chemical versatility. They show excellent anti-fouling properties and, like PEG, are of interest in many fields where bio-inertness or anti-adhesiveness are important such as for medical devices, tissue engineering, biosensors, or drug delivery carriers. Surprisingly few studies have utilized this polymer class for the preparation of anti-fouling membranes. Here we describe a new termination reaction of the living cationic ring-opening polymerization of 2-oxazolines in which a benzophenone group is introduced as a photoactivatable terminal head group of poly(2-oxazoline)s. Using 4-vinylbenzyl chloride as initiator, heterotelechelic poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (PMOXA) macromonomers were synthesized and copolymerized with hydroxyl-functional PMOXA macromonomers to yield photoactivatable PMOXA-based prepolymer bottle brushes. Likewise, star-PMOXAs were synthesized by using a trifunctional initiator. Photoactivatable PMOXA prepolymers allowed us to readily form anti-fouling hydrogels by a simple and versatile CH-insertion cross-linking (CHic) process. Hydrogels were applied to poly(ether sulfone) ultrafiltration membranes as pore coating and the pure water permeance (PWP) was investigated as a function of hydrogel architecture and cross-link density. Anti-fouling hydrogel pore-coated membranes having PWPs on the order of hundred kg·m−2·h−1·bar−1 were obtained.

Emerging Trends of Gold Nanostructures for Point-of-Care Biosensor-Based Detection of COVID-19.

In 2019, a worldwide pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged. SARS-CoV-2 is the deadly microorganism responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has caused millions of deaths and irreversible health problems worldwide. To restrict the spread of SARS-CoV-2, accurate detection of COVID-19 is essential for the identification and control of infected cases. Although recent detection technologies such as the real-time polymerase chain reaction delivers an accurate diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, they require a long processing duration, expensive equipment, and highly skilled personnel. Therefore, a rapid diagnosis with accurate results is indispensable to offer effective disease suppression. Nanotechnology is the backbone of current science and technology developments including nanoparticles (NPs) that can biomimic the corona and develop deep interaction with its proteins because of their identical structures on the nanoscale. Various NPs have been extensively applied in numerous medical applications, including implants, biosensors, drug delivery, and bioimaging. Among them, point-of-care biosensors mediated with gold nanoparticles (GNPSs) have received great attention due to their accurate sensing characteristics, which are widely used in the detection of amino acids, enzymes, DNA, and RNA in samples. GNPS have reconstructed the biomedical application of biosensors because of its outstanding physicochemical characteristics. This review provides an overview of emerging trends in GNP-mediated point-of-care biosensor strategies for diagnosing various mutated forms of human coronaviruses that incorporate different transducers and biomarkers. The review also specifically highlights trends in gold nanobiosensors for coronavirus detection, ranging from the initial COVID-19 outbreak to its subsequent evolution into a pandemic.

Review of Spider Silk Applications in Biomedical and Tissue Engineering.

This review will present the latest research related to the production and application of spider silk and silk-based materials in reconstructive and regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, with a focus on musculoskeletal tissues, and including skin regeneration and tissue repair of bone and cartilage, ligaments, muscle tissue, peripheral nerves, and artificial blood vessels. Natural spider silk synthesis is reviewed, and the further recombinant production of spider silk proteins. Research insights into possible spider silk structures, like fibers (1D), coatings (2D), and 3D constructs, including porous structures, hydrogels, and organ-on-chip designs, have been reviewed considering a design of bioactive materials for smart medical implants and drug delivery systems. Silk is one of the toughest natural materials, with high strain at failure and mechanical strength. Novel biomaterials with silk fibroin can mimic the tissue structure and promote regeneration and new tissue growth. Silk proteins are important in designing tissue-on-chip or organ-on-chip technologies and micro devices for the precise engineering of artificial tissues and organs, disease modeling, and the further selection of adequate medical treatments. Recent research indicates that silk (films, hydrogels, capsules, or liposomes coated with silk proteins) has the potential to provide controlled drug release at the target destination. However, even with clear advantages, there are still challenges that need further research, including clinical trials.

Utilizing AI-Enhanced Multi-Omics Integration for Predictive Modeling of Disease Susceptibility in Functional Phenotypes

With the continuous development of machine learning technology, the scientific research of biomedical materials is gradually shifting to a data-driven direction. The rise of this trend stems from the widespread use of Bio sequencing technology, which provides entirely new methods and insights for testing and evaluating the biological function of biomedical materials. The performance and performance of biomedical materials have a wide range of applications in medical applications, drug delivery, biosensors and other fields, so it is important to further optimize them. However, with the accumulation and increasing complexity of data, there is a need for more intelligent and efficient ways to process and analyze this heterogeneous scientific data. Therefore, the establishment of an open, shared infrastructure for storing heterogeneous scientific data from different research fields will be the cornerstone of cross-disciplinary joint analysis. This infrastructure will not only accelerate the collection and integration of data, but will also provide opportunities for collaboration and innovation across disciplines. This paper highlights a new trend in biomedical materials research, namely a data-driven approach, and the key role of Bio sequencing technology in this process. At the same time, we call for the establishment of an open data storage and sharing platform to promote multidisciplinary cooperation, accelerate the optimization and innovation of biomedical materials, and open up broader prospects for future biomedical applications. This effort is expected to push scientific research in the medical field to new heights, providing safer and more effective treatments and medical programs for patients.

Studying the photothermal activation of polydopamine-shelled, phase-change emulsion droplets into microbubbles using small- and ultra-small-angle neutron scattering

Polydopamine-shelled perfluorocarbon (PDA/PFC) emulsion droplets are promising candidates for medical imaging and drug delivery applications. This study investigates their phase transition into microbubbles under near-infrared (NIR) illumination in situ using small- and ultra-small-angle neutron scattering (SANS and USANS) and contrast variation techniques. Supported by optical microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and ultrasound imaging, SANS and USANS results reveal rapid phase transition rates upon NIR illumination, dependent on PFC content and droplet size distribution. Specifically, perfluoropentane droplets rapidly transform into bubbles upon NIR irradiation, whereas perfluorohexane droplets exhibit greater resistance to phase change (bulk boiling points = 30 °C and 60 °C, respectively). Furthermore, smaller emulsion droplets with unimodal distribution resist NIR-triggered phase changes better than their bimodal counterparts. This observation is attributable to the lower boiling points of large emulsion droplets (lower Laplace pressure than smaller droplets) and the faster photothermal heating rates due to their thicker polydopamine shells. The insights gained from these techniques are crucial for designing phase-change emulsions activated by NIR for photothermal therapies and controlled drug delivery.

Analyzing Current FDA Human Factors IFU Guidance Through the Lens of a Rapidly Changing Medical Drug Delivery Device Landscape

Analyzing Current FDA Human Factors IFU Guidance Through the Lens of a Rapidly Changing Medical Drug Delivery Device Landscape

Advancements and Application of 4D Printing in the Medical Field : A Comprehensive Review

4D printing is an innovative and quickly expanding technology that combines the concepts of 3D printing with the adition of shape –shifting and self adaptable capabilities. The review paper investigates the advancement application of 4 D printing with the medical industry .we describe the fundamental concepts of 4D printing stressing its potential in the production of personalised patient –specific medical equipment tissue engineering drug delivery system and surgical tools. Additionally we evaluate the challenges and future possibility of 4D printing in healthcare.

Developing Porous Microneedles Patch for the Detection of Wound Infections

AbstractWound infections caused by invasive pathogens become an increasing global challenge health. Porous microneedles (MNs) present distinctive advantages for non‐invasive and in situ detection of wound infections, enabling the extraction of interstitial fluid, skin sweat, saliva and other biological samples. Consequently, porous MNs find widespread acceptance in medical detection, drug delivery, and monitoring physiological indicators. Based on these advantages, the emerging clinical applications and classifications of MNs is first introduced, covering mechanical strength, methods for antibody probe modification onto porous MNs, and signal amplification techniques for biomarkers analysis. At the same time, the specific applications of immunology and electrochemistry on porous MNs, introducing methods to enhance the detection signal of target molecules, such as rolling circle amplification, gold/silver nanoparticles, fluorescence amplification origami microneedle and so on is try to summarized. The improvement of detection sensitivity is realized by integrating various signal amplification strategies and diverse detection methods. Meanwhile, it is briefly illustrated applications in wound detections. Finally, challenges and future prospects of using porous MNs for detection in practical applications is discussed.

BİYOMEDİKAL UYGULAMALARDA KULLANILAN MİKROBİYAL BİYOPOLİMERLERE BAKIŞ

Microbial biopolymers are products of living organisms include microorganism, plant etc. They could be biodegradable, biocompatible, non or low toxic and show anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. They have been grouped in polysaccharide, lipid and protein. Microbial biopolymers are important source as biomaterials in variable sectors consist of biomedical applications, tissue engineering, food industry, wound repair system, and also drug delivery. Therefore, the selection criteria are vital for these areas because these materials use for shaping of medical implants. These criteria should be elected passive and inert for safe and long-term implant in medical applications. 
 In this review, biopolymers derivatives from microorganisms are handled especially alginate, chitin, chitosan, levan, polyhydroxalkanoates, hyaluronic acid and this review has highlighted the potential of microbial biopolymers in the field of biomedical research. For biomedical applications, the economic factors, biosynthesis, and characteristics of these polymers have been examined. The ability of microbial biopolymers to be extraordinarily variable and to have induced features makes them advantageous for solving issues in biomedical research. Microbial biopolymers can be used to arrange sustainable processes in a range of medical applications, including tissue engineering, the development of medical devices, drug delivery, cancer therapy, and wound healing. Therefore, these biopolymers historical past, properties and extraction methods and application approach were emphasized.

3D printing technology in drug delivery: Polymer properties and applications

Pharmaceutical sciences are the exploration of the design, composition, action, and conveyance of drugs. It encompasses a wide range of research domains that seems to be fundamental for the discovery and development of new drugs and therapies. It is indeed categorized under many fractions with numerous specialized fields. New concepts in pharmaceutical research, a greater understanding of the properties of polymeric materials, fabricating innovation, and novel methodologies that assure high-quality dosage forms are being constantly pursued. The application of 3D printing technology in the area of drug delivery has brought new scope and opportunities. Various dosage forms like tablets, catheters, nanosuspensions, nanocomposites, multi-layered dosage forms, polypills, caplets, complex drug release dosage forms, and medical drug delivery devices have been explored in the recent past and detailed reviews of pharmaceuticals have also been studied. However, this technology has not been limited to the drug delivery or medical device field only. In this article, the authors highlighted the physiochemical properties of polymers that are utilized in the preparation of pharmaceutical dosage forms and also describes some of the new advancements and educational applications that have given a new dimension to this novel 3D-printing technology apart from the pharmaceutical and biomedical arena.